Eligible families can access up to 30 hours of free childcare for children between aged 3 to 4. This government funding can be used towards a Nursery place and helps support both early learning and childcare costs.
Am I eligible?
You may be able to claim 30 hours free childcare if you are working and meet the governments income requirements. As a guide, over a three-month period you (and your partner, if applicable) should expect to earn at least:
- £2,380 before tax (around £183 per week) if you are aged 21 or over
- £1,788 before tax (around £137 per week) if you are aged 18 to 20
- £1,331 before tax (around £102 per week) if you are under 18 or an apprentice
As eligibility depends on individual circumstances, we recommend checking directly through the government website.
How to apply
Funding begins at the start of the term after your child turns three, so applying at the right time is important.
- Children turning three between September and December can access funding from January
- Children turning three between January and March can access funding from April
- Children turning three between April and August can access funding from September
Applications are completed online through the government website and usually take around 20 minutes. If your application is successful, you will be given a code. This code will need to be shared with the school so we can confirm and arrange your funded hours.
Using your funded hours
If your child attends our Nursery, we will work with you to organise a timetable that makes the best use of your funded hours, based on availability and session patterns. Our team will guide you through the options and help you choose an arrangement that suits your family.
30 hours free childcare is a funding scheme and is separate from the school admissions process. Accessing this funding does not guarantee a place in Reception, and a separate application must be made when your child is due to start school.